A key milestone for the development of the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro extension has entered its final stages. The impressive structure, standing over 6.2 metres tall, will serve as the crucial junction between the new extension and the existing operational route.
The structure at Delta Junction, which will serve as a key interchange for rail services in Birmingham once fully built has been delivered by Midland Metro Alliance on behalf of Transport for West Midlands (TfWM).
To mark this achievement, Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, and Councillor Peter Hughes, Sandwell Council cabinet member for regeneration and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), visited the site to witness first hand the progress made in its construction.
"This is a momentous occasion for the extension, bringing us closer to linking it with the existing line," said Mayor Street. "Talked about for decades, we’re now actually making it happen. We’re now within touching distance and set to see a service open to Dudley within a year."
Councillor Hughes echoed the Mayor's enthusiasm, emphasising the project's benefits for the community. "The progress we see today is a direct result of everyone's hard work and dedication," he stated.
"This development will significantly enhance Sandwell's sustainable public transport options, and I'm thrilled to see this important route come to life. This additional link across the Black Country to Birmingham will be instrumental in the continued growth of our local community."
The Wednesbury to Brierley Hill extension is a cornerstone of Transport for West Midlands' commitment to improving the region's public transport infrastructure. Councillor Mike Bird, WMCA portfolio holder for transport and leader of Walsall Council, elaborated on this commitment.
"This extension is just one element of a £2 billion investment by the WMCA in infrastructure and services over the next five years," explained Councillor Bird. "Our goal is to deliver a transportation revolution for the region, including building new railway stations, expanding bus lanes and cycling routes, introducing more electric buses, and developing cutting-edge technology like very light rail."
The new line and complex junction will serve trams travelling through Sandwell and Dudley, with lines also running through the junction from Birmingham and Wolverhampton and onto its final destination at Wednesbury.
Work began on the junction in November 2021, and is expected to open fully, later this year.
Photo: WMCA
